Golf is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. From amateur enthusiasts to professional golfers, this sport draws people of all backgrounds together. Perhaps one of its greatest appeals is that it can be played worldwide on stunning courses that leave even non-golfers speechless. This article will introduce some leading golf travel destinations, providing insight into what makes each unique.
- Pebble Beach, California
Pebble Beach in California is one of the world’s most celebrated golf courses, hosting some of the world’s premier tournaments such as the US Open and AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. This 18-hole golf course provides stunning coastal vistas to help golfers forget their scores as they gaze upon ocean waves.
- St. Andrews, Scotland
St. Andrews is widely considered the birthplace of golf and an iconic destination for fans of this ancient game. Home to one of its three iconic courses – Old Course dating back to 15th century and several others offering incredible experiences – as well as being home to British Golf Museum which allows visitors to delve deep into its history. - Maui, Hawaii
Many consider Maui an ideal location for outdoor activities like golf and other water sports. The Kapalua coastal golf course on Maui provides breathtaking golfing experiences against a breathtaking background of mountains, pine trees and ocean. Golfers can admire nature while unwinding. - Pinehurst, North Carolina
Pinehurst resort, situated in North Carolina, has hosted multiple United States Open Championships over its long history. Boasting nine distinct golf courses – each offering something different than its neighbor – golfers can spend multiple days here without repeating rounds twice! Plus there’s the top-of-the-line spa and dining amenities which make Pinehurst the ideal spot for relaxing after an exhausting day of play!
- Costa del Sol, Spain
Costa del Sol translates to the “Sun Coast,” thanks to its 320 days of annual sunshine. As its name implies, this picturesque location in southern Europe features some of the finest golf courses available – some designed by legendary names from golf such as Valderrama; it is widely considered as one of Europe’s premier courses. - Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs’ pleasant climate creates the ideal setting for year-round golf, making this location a golfer’s dream thanks to the PGA Champions Tour which takes place annually here. Date Valley city hosts numerous top-rated facilities that take full advantage of their surroundings while giving golfers stunning mountain views as they tee off.
- Kohler, Wisconsin
Kohler is an internationally-recognized golf destination and spa resort that provides top-of-the-line experiences in Wisconsin. Their golf courses have won multiple accolades; Blackwolf Run won GolfWeek’s Award of Excellence as the number one resort course for 2020! These challenging yet enjoyable rounds showcase natural features of Wisconsin such as Whistling Straits. - Praia del Rey in Portugal
Praia del Rey is located on Portugal’s west coast and just an hour’s drive away from Lisbon, boasting a stunning championship golf course that winds along its stunning seaside promenade, offering incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to offering golf, this gorgeous location also boasts charming fishing town amenities as well as other tourist attractions for non-golfers.
- Royal Melbourne Golf Club of Australia
Australia may not immediately spring to mind as a golf destination, but Royal Melbourne Golf Club makes an exceptional case. Recognized as one of Australia’s premier courses and hosting several PGA Tour events over time, its terrain blends beautifully with Melbourne’s natural terrain – including large eucalyptus trees and sandy waste areas.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand In recent years, Thailand’s travel destination popularity has skyrocketed and Chiang Mai is no exception. Situated amongst Thailand’s beautiful forested mountains in its northern regions, golfers can simultaneously appreciate playing golf while appreciating its picturesque setting. Chiang Mai also is famed for its historic temples, exceptional cuisine and night markets which provide plenty of non-golf related entertainment activities for visitors.
Conclusion
Travelers seeking a golfing experience on their travel itinerary have an array of exciting destinations available to them worldwide. The golf courses listed provide elegant experiences for both recreational players and professionals, creating breathtaking scenes to wow even non-golfers.